Find out how popular the first name Enma has been for the last 30 years (from 1994 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Enma by gender

Based on the last 30 years of data, Enma is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 13 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Enma.

The history of the first name Enma

The given name Enma is believed to have originated from the Japanese language, with its roots potentially traced back to the 8th century. It is derived from the Japanese words "en," meaning "grace" or "charm," and "ma," meaning "truth" or "sincerity." The name Enma can be interpreted as embodying qualities such as graceful sincerity or charming truthfulness.

While the name may have existed earlier, one of the earliest recorded references to Enma comes from ancient Japanese folklore. In the folktales of the Shinto religion, Enma is depicted as the ruler of the underworld, responsible for judging the souls of the deceased and determining their afterlife fate. This mythological figure played a significant role in the cultural and spiritual beliefs of ancient Japan.

In the 12th century, the name Enma appeared in the historical records of the Heian period in Japan. During this time, it was occasionally bestowed upon noble women in aristocratic families, indicating its association with elegance and refinement.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Enma. One such figure was Enma Ryūji (1501-1573), a renowned Buddhist monk and calligrapher of the Muromachi period in Japan. His contributions to the art of calligraphy and his spiritual teachings left a lasting impact on Japanese culture.

Another prominent individual was Enma Itsuko (1869-1948), a pioneering Japanese educator and activist. She played a crucial role in advocating for women's education and empowerment during the Meiji and Taishō eras in Japan.

In the realm of literature, Enma Sae (1884-1972) was a celebrated Japanese novelist and poet. Her works explored themes of love, family, and the complexities of human relationships, resonating with readers across generations.

Moving beyond Japan, the name Enma also found its way into other cultures. In the 19th century, Enma Louisa Peebles (1830-1905) was a notable Scottish painter and artist, known for her vivid portraits and landscapes capturing the beauty of her surroundings.

Lastly, Enma Goldman (1869-1940) was a renowned Russian-American anarchist, writer, and feminist activist. She played a significant role in advocating for workers' rights, free speech, and social reform, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of political activism.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Enma was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Enma, please contact us.

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